Let’s continue our discussion of bugging out. Previously, we listed the reasons why the usual bug out vehicle (typically a 4WD SUV or truck) was far from a sure bet to get you to your safe haven. We’ll look at alternatives to the classic bug out vehicle, and you’ll notice everything is smaller than an SUV, as everything that size or bigger has the same problems.
First, we have the motorcycle. For me, this vehicle still possesses most of the disadvantages of its four tired cousins, and sacrifices the major advantage. The motorcycle is still subject to needing fuel and decent roads for the most part, is subject to breakdown, and lacks cargo capacity and inherent stability. That said, it is more maneuverable than a car, can possibly negotiate routes blocked by traffic or debris, and might get you to your haven faster than anything else. Still, it wouldn’t be top of my list.
Next up is the ubiquitous four-wheeler. Made by a variety of manufacturers, they are all touted as off road vehicles that can get you where you need to go. To a certain extent, this is true. The machines tend to be light, agile, and small enough to go where you’d never get to in a car or truck. That said, they are no handier in thick brush than anything else, are as stopped by deep water as easily as a bigger vehicle, and are subject to your range being limited by fuel. They have the advantage of being able to carry a goodly amount of gear, and tow even more on a trailer. This might be my choice if I had a secluded off road route I had reconnoitered beforehand and knew was passable for this type of machine.
These vehicles also come in a light truck style with a small cargo bed. This might be worth looking at as well. Regardless of style, the four-wheeler must give way to the snowmobile in winter.
Snowmobiles are the off road recreational vehicle of choice for many Manitobans and a working vehicle for many more. They are likely the speediest way to bug out in the winter, and have all of the advantages of the four-wheeler. The snowmobile can maneuver across country in conditions that will stop almost every other vehicle dead, or limit them at the very least to maintained roads. The ability to tow cargo sleds is important, as carrying shelter, fuel, food, and other supplies will be of paramount importance in a winter bug-out.
Again, they are limited by terrain to an extent, although less so than most of the fairer weather choices. The main problem I have with these is the distressingly high breakdown rate when used hard.
There are other specialized motorized vehicles that may or may not make a good choice of bug out vehicle. Getting your hands on a Flex-Track might be ideal for some preppers’ purposes, or a railway capable vehicle might be just the ticket for others. These options would be situation specific, and a highly individual choice. So let’s move on to the only non- motorized vehicle worthy of consideration.
The venerable bicycle is the obvious choice. The motor is you, the fuel something you consume anyway, and your ability to repair mechanical breakdowns is high. The cargo capacity can be quite amazing all things considered. The Viet Cong moved massive loads by bicycle during the Viet Nam war, and while you might prefer to ride rather than walk pushing a bike loaded with hundreds of pounds of stuff, your cargo capacity is not bad, considering. Panniers front and back, frame and handlebar bags, a backpack for you and a trailer for the bike allow a decent if not overwhelming cargo capacity.
Limitations are the need for at least some sort of trail, lower cargo capacity than other options, and a lack of speed. Crossing water is still a problem, but solvable by either preparation or pre-positioning (I know one person that has an inflatable raft cached at a likely crossing point!). Bicycles are pretty much out of the picture for winter, as well.
You’ll notice I haven’t included aircraft. While the ability, financial and otherwise, to get a pilot’s license is beyond a lot of us and the possibility of owning our own aircraft is an option open to even fewer, it is not my primary reason for discarding it. The likelihood of getting to it, and then being allowed to even take off seems iffy in a major crisis. But again, it may be a solution for a few in specific circumstances. Of course, there is always the flying car option (see pic above).
Likewise, I’ve ignored watercraft of all types. I believe you are too restricted in your path, too exposed to hostile intent, and since many cities and towns are located on rivers, it is too much like having to bug out multiple times. Again, this situation I feel applies to the majority, and may have exceptions. It’s up to you. The purpose of this article is to make you think about what's best for you, not rule anything out.
Next, we’ll look at two of the best bug out vehicles available!
Published originally July 01. 2010 @ MPN
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